The Wadden Sea, the seals

The itinerary: Spring 2017

The Wadden Sea (Dutch: Waddenzee) is an intertidal zone in the southeastern part of the North Sea, located approximately 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Groningen. In 2009 it was inscribed on Unesco’s World Heritage List. It is famous for its rich biological diversity: this natural site provides shelter for a large amount of fish species. Millions of migratory birds use the area as a migration stopover or wintering site, and a considerable population of seals calls the Wadden Sea their home.

The unique Wadden Sea islands are marked by dunes and wide, sandy beaches towards the North Sea and a low, tidal coast towards the Wadden Sea. Twice a day, during the period of low water, large parts of the Wadden Sea dry up. With the aid of a tide table, it is possible to walk and wade on the watershed of the mudflats, a spectacular and unforgettable experience.

At 1 PM we will leave Groningen (meetingpoint the base of the Tower of Saint Martin at the Grote Markt) in a luxurious coach. Under the supervision of a professional tourist guide we will arrive in Lauwersoog-harbour one hour later. Then you get the opportunity to discover the Wadden Sea by vessel. We are going to navigate alongside the island of Schiermonnikoog and hopefully you will be astounded by the beauty of both sea and land. No doubt we will encounter seals, who are usually sunbathing on one of the many sandbanks of the Wadden Sea.

On board you can enjoy coffee, tea and, if desired, an alcoholic beverage. We will arrive at Lauwersoog at 4.30 PM, and will then drive back to Groningen. We expect to be at the Grote Markt at 05.45 PM.